Discussion (8) ¬

A really good detailed appraisal of the match and you have not been afraid to mention some of the unfortunate failings from the game.

You are also right to highlight the positives too, because despite the setback I feel very positive about this team and when they learn that defence comes first and from that, fluent attacking will naturally follow, I think we will move on to becoming a top, top team. Maybe even this season.

It’s worrying that the Verm is continuing with some of the bad habits he developed last season. During his first year with us he was absolutely exemplary and it would be interesting to know what the problem is. He seems too impetuous at times – whether by diving in unnecessarily or by charging upfield at inappropriate times.

I feel we need at least three wins and a draw from the next four games. We have had as tough an opening set of fixtures as I can remember for years and I think we’ll start motoring up the table with the games against lower placed teams provided – as you say – we take them seriously.

Last year some of those games were our undoing, particularly because of our vulnerability when the opposition broke away. Our better defensive organisation this year (notwithstanding the mistakes against Chelsea) should stand us in good stead against these teams.

Finally it’s worth remembering that Chelsea are a very good team this year. From what I have seen they are favourites for the title, so our performance needs to be viewed in that context.

I cant say am happy with what i saw, cos we were playing at home and so we should not be loosing games like this at home. I also blame Wenger for our defeat and not the defence because i dont understand why Gervinho is playing as a CF while Poldo is on the left wing and Giroud was sitting on the bench

Thanks for commenting. I guess one thing we can’t really argue with is Gervinho’s scoring rate. In 6 games he has scored 3 goals. Not too shabby, but Giroud or Poldi given those chances would have buried most of them including those Gervinho missed.